Researchers in the UK have discovered that a ‘cold shock’ protein found in cold water swimmers may prevent brain diseases, such as dementia.
The team, from the University of Cambridge, analysed blood samples from swimmers at an outdoor pool in London, and found the presence of a protein which had previously been identified by them in a mouse model.
High levels of this ‘cold shock’ protein were able to slow, or even reverse damage caused to neurons in the brain.
Presenting their work in an online lecture (video), lead researcher Dr Giovanna Mallucci said the group plan to investigate the protein as part of future drug treatments for dementia.